2005 Maybach Exelero Concept

The basis of the SW 38 was the world-famous Zeppelin chassis; however, it used a lighter 140-hp 3.6-litre six-cylinder engine

Fulda boss Bernd J. Hoffmann outlined one main goal which the Exelero must achieve - breaking a speed barrier, in this case, 350 km/h. (Photo: Fulda Reifenwerk)

instead of the typical V12 to meet its goal. In conjunction with its aerodynamic skin and high speed-capable tires, the SW38 was able to surpass its designer's expectations.

Sixty-six years later, the Maybach and Fulda tire team are back together, initiated by the magnificent brand's rebirth by DaimlerChrysler. As with the original SW 38, Fulda boss Bernd J. Hoffmann outlined one main goal which the Exelero must achieve - breaking a speed barrier, in this case, 350 km/h. An engineering 'dream-team', which included world-famous engineers, stylists and developers, consulted and aided in the building of the special-purpose machine.

When Maybach and Fulda first set out to build the SW 38 in the early '30s,

The shape and image of the Exelero includes elements from several different designs. (Photo: Fulda Reifenwerk)

their main purpose was to create a record-breaking vehicle regardless of its shape or size. While this is still a primary goal with the Exelero, the two companies wanted a limousine that paid homage to the original. The job of styling what would become the Exelero was granted to Pforzheim Polytechnical's Design Department, which worked in conjunction with the Design Department at DaimlerChrysler AG. The shape and image of the Exelero includes elements from several different designs, some of which include the split rear window of the '63 Corvette Stingray, to graceful 1930's American speedsters, to the rear hull of a boat.